Top 3 Headlines
Saudi Tourism numbers on the rise
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector performed well in the first half of 2025, attracting 60.9 million local and international visitors. Total tourism spending exceeded SR161.4 billion, a 4% growth compared to the same period in 2024. The average stay for inbound tourists was 6.7 nights, while domestic travellers stayed for 18.6 nights, indicating deeper engagement with the kingdom’s tourism offerings. Leisure, shopping, and sports trips drove most tourism, followed by religious visits and family trips. Makkah and Madinah were top destinations for inbound tourism, while Riyadh and the Eastern Province led in domestic tourism. Egypt, Pakistan, and Kuwait were the top source markets, with hotels accounting for 43% of accommodation choices. Furnished apartments and private residences also gained popularity, reflecting travelers’ preference for extended-stay and alternative lodging options.
Visit Qatar’s star-studded campaign
Visit Qatar has launched a dynamic campaign showcasing the country’s exciting calendar of events, from sports to cultural highlights. The campaign film, set at Hamad International Airport, features a range of items on a luggage belt, each representing a major event and starring a celebrity ambassador. David Beckham narrates the film, connecting the stories and capturing Qatar’s worldwide appeal and hospitality. The campaign boasts an impressive lineup of stars, including Ons Jabeur, Anirudh Ravichander, Hande Erçel, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Mo Farah. Together, they highlight Qatar’s dynamic spirit, creativity, and openness, showcasing the country’s world-class events and experiences.
AlUla crowned Leading Cultural Tourism Project
AlUla, a historic oasis in Saudi Arabia, has been crowned the Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project at the World Travel Awards 2025. This is the second consecutive win for AlUla, which has been open to the public since 2019. The city is known for its rich history, ancient ruins, and immersive cultural experiences, attracting visitors from around the world. AlUla’s attractions include Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring monumental Nabataean tombs; as well as seasonal festivals, such as the Winter at Tantora Festival, which showcases music, art, and cultural performances under the desert stars.
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Noteworthy
- The Saudi Tourism Authority has partnered with AROYA Cruises and Major Sports Cruises to promote Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector during the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah in January 2026. The partnership offers European visitors a unique experience combining football with cultural exploration, featuring organized tours to historical and cultural landmarks like the Jeddah Historic District and Corniche, before attending the tournament matches.
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has cancelled its deal with Saudi Arabia to host the Esports Games, citing a mutual agreement, but both parties will pursue their own esports ambitions separately.
- Sand Sherpa has launched its Nomad Camp in Dubai’s Desert Conservation Reserve, offering family-friendly glamping experiences with modern amenities and activities like nature walks, wildlife drives, and nomadic cooking, while promoting conservation and environmental education.
- Oman’s tourism industry is booming with USD 260 million in investments, aiming to diversify its economy and promote sustainable tourism. The projects are spread across various governorates, including Muscat, Dhofar, Al Dakhiliyah, and North Al Sharqiyah, and include developments such as hotels, resorts, tourist camps, and integrated tourism complexes.
- Morocco is projected to welcome 18 million tourists by the end of 2025, with revenues expected to reach USD 12.4 billion, driven by enhanced air connectivity, international promotion, and investments in tourism infrastructure.
- Kuwait’s Ministry of Information and Culture and Jazeera Airways have signed a cooperation agreement with Visit Kuwait to promote tourism and digital services, supporting the country’s development plan and aiming to boost its tourism sector through innovation and partnerships.
- The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi hosted an exclusive CIS marketplace in Al Ain, connecting over 200 travel partners from Central Asia with Abu Dhabi stakeholders to boost tourism and build on the region’s growing visitor numbers.
- The 7th Adventure and Camping Exhibition 2025 concluded at Expo Al Dhaid, welcoming more than 12,000 visitors and showcasing innovations in outdoor and adventure activities, with 75 major companies and 200 global brands displaying over 10,000 products, including a fully electric off-road vehicle.
